C8-t1 Jun 2026

Classic distinction: C8 = T1 = medial forearm (no finger involvement)

Issues at these levels, such as (pinched nerves), often mimic ulnar neuropathy (cubital tunnel syndrome) because both affect the inner hand. Differentiating C8–T1 Radiculopathy from Ulnar Neuropathy Classic distinction: C8 = T1 = medial forearm

| Feature | C8-T1 Lesion | C5-C6 (Upper Brachial Plexus) Lesion | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Claw Hand | Waiter’s Tip (Erb’s Palsy) | | Main Deficit | Loss of hand dexterity/grip | Loss of shoulder abduction/elbow flexion | | Sensory Loss | Medial arm/forearm/hand | Lateral arm/forearm/hand | | Reflexes Affected | None specifically (Finger jerk may be absent) | Biceps and Brachioradialis reflexes | | Associated Signs | Horner’s Syndrome (T1) | None specific | such as (pinched nerves)

This condition results from a traction injury to the C8 and T1 roots. It is historically associated with difficult childbirths where the infant's arm is pulled upward, or in adults falling from a height while grabbing a ledge (forcing the arm upward). Classic distinction: C8 = T1 = medial forearm